Periodieke updates uit 2014

With the onset of short rains the vegetation turns lush green and the colours of the savannah gradually move from faded green to green. This is definitely good for the environment but it also triggers the growth of invasive species that are dominant in the soil waiting for the right moment (presence of moisture) to sprout rapidly, flower, fruit and disperse seeds.

Projects Abroad partnered with Kigio Wildlife Conservancy (KWC) with the main objective of ensuring that wildlife are protected and conserved for future generations. This requires a high focus with regards to sustainable scientific, cultural, aesthetic and economic gains that are in accordance with the Wildlife Act (Cap. 376).

The months of June and July have been busy but very rewarding thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers with one mission and vision to conserve. Our focus is still on the “successful management of all wildlife species population including those managed for maximum sustained breeding” where “avoidance of overpopulation will depend on uninterrupted and detailed population monitoring”.

The Rothschild’s giraffe population occurs in Kenya and Uganda with some population in South Sudan. In Kenya they occur outside their natural range, therefore the need of constant monitoring to ensure the survival of this species in the remaining stronghold.

The Conservation project in Kenya has been moving from strength to strength with the support of a dedicated team of volunteers and staff. The ongoing giraffe research, in partnership with the Giraffe Research and Conservation Trust (GRCT), is going well with 25 giraffe surveys already totalling to 201 and 156 giraffe observations in the month of February and March respectively.

The future of the Rothschild’s giraffe is still uncertain, with the population of this sub species falling drastically to less than 1100. The loss of this sub species is greatly attributed to habitat loss and poaching; and Projects Abroad is playing a crucial role in ensuring their survival.